University of Sussex sign

The University of Sussex sign sits on the campus grounds just north of Brighton, and it's one of those spots that works better as a quick stop than a destination in itself. The sign marks the entrance to the university's striking brutalist campus, designed in the 1960s by Basil Spence. If you're into architecture or want a decent photo opportunity, it's worth a five-minute detour from Brighton.

What you're actually looking at is a sculptural sign that's become oddly photogenic over the years - the kind of thing architecture students and design enthusiasts tend to make a beeline for. The campus itself is worth a wander if you've got time. The buildings have aged in interesting ways, and the grounds are genuinely pleasant, though obviously this isn't a tourist attraction in the traditional sense.

Really, this works best as part of a larger day out around Brighton rather than a standalone trip. You could easily combine it with a visit to nearby parks like Chalky Downs Campsite or Blackberry Wood if you're based in the area. Families with teenagers interested in design or architecture might find it engaging. Everyone else? You'll likely be done in ten minutes.

It's free to visit, obviously - you're just walking past a university sign on a public campus. There's no formal opening hours since it's just a landmark. Go when you're in the mood for a bit of Sixties architecture spotting, and don't expect it to occupy more than a quick photo stop.